Overnight Development Marathon Tackles Antisemitism
An Israeli nonprofit along with Fiverr hosted an overnight development marathon last Thursday. The event gathered approximately 40 students and young tech professionals to create AI-based tools aimed at identifying and combating antisemitic hate in gaming and various digital environments. This initiative was prompted by alarming data indicating a significant surge in online antisemitic rhetoric since the onset of the conflict with Iran.
The initiative, led by ADIR in collaboration with Colors, Fiverr’s philanthropic foundation, and NYU’s Center for the Study of Antisemitism, was conducted in a distributed format due to security concerns. Participants worked overnight from sheltered rooms known as mamads (reinforced safe rooms) across Israel while maintaining connectivity through Zoom.
Organizers anticipated that ten development teams, consisting of computer science students and young developers, would create technological prototypes designed to help businesses and organizations more effectively recognize hate speech, incitement, and antisemitic abuse aimed at younger audiences online.
This effort is particularly timely as concerns about antisemitism in digital spaces escalates, especially on platforms frequented by children and adolescents. Notably, a case involving the parents of a 12-year-old Israeli boy, who reported their son being removed from a Roblox game due to his Jewish identity, has underscored the urgency of this initiative.
Data from the Blue Square Alliance, referenced by the organizers, indicates that antisemitic discourse on social media and gaming platforms has skyrocketed by 264% since the outbreak of the Iran conflict. Additionally, the same data reflects a staggering 668% increase in dehumanizing language directed at Jews and Israelis, and a 749% rise in conspiracy theories alleging Zionist control over governments, alongside a resurgence of extremist content glorifying Nazism. The Blue Square Alliance has recently published a report detailing the escalation of antisemitic themes in the online sphere linked to the ongoing war.
The participating teams are expected to develop generative AI-based solutions that can be integrated into trust and safety systems employed by global tech companies, as stated in the announcement. Those who complete the program will receive a certificate co-issued by NYU’s Center for the Study of Antisemitism and ADIR.
Throughout the marathon, participants will receive guidance from mentors and judges representing companies such as Fiverr, Overwolf, Tech7, MoonActive, and Earth & Beyond Ventures, according to the organizers.
Morielle Lotan, the founder and CEO of ADIR, emphasized that opting to proceed—despite the looming missile threat—holds significant symbolic value.
Persevering Amidst Threats
“The resolve of our partners and participants to continue with this initiative, despite ongoing missile threats, is the most compelling response to the wave of antisemitism we are currently facing,” Lotan stated.
“While Israeli innovation aids in our triumph on the physical battlefield during Operation Roaring Lion, in the digital realm we confront a well-structured machine of incitement. ADIR is rallying the brightest young minds to develop capabilities for the battle over public perception and to enhance safety within the gaming environment for all users.”
Sharon Steiner, Fiverr’s Chief Human Resources Officer, noted that the company views this initiative as part of broader efforts to utilize technology for social good.
“Especially during challenging times, as Israeli society grapples with a complex reality and intense international incitement, we must leverage the most advanced technologies available to effect genuine change,” Steiner declared.
“We are proud to stand beside the young participants in this initiative, equipping them with the professional tools and mentorship essential for their success. Fiverr remains committed to supporting social initiatives that deliver significant impact, both in normal times and during crises.”
Founded after the tragic events of October 7, ADIR is dedicated to cultivating talent and creating technological solutions aimed at combating antisemitism, radicalization, and online hate. The organization was established in memory of Adir Mesika, who lost his life at the Nova music festival while heroically assisting others. The Jerusalem Post has previously reported on ADIR’s initiatives focused on empowering students against antisemitism.
